🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Generation:

Second Generation (AN)

Production Years Covered:

1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Chassis Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance, owners seeking in-depth knowledge.

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and technicians to perform accurate and efficient service, saving on dealership labor costs.

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust V8 engine options, comfortable ride for a pickup, competitive pricing, decent towing and hauling capabilities for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF implied)

Distribution Method:

Free Download (No Shipping Cost)

Original Source:

Factory Service Manual (Dealer Equivalent)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair), fuel system (components, diagnosis, testing), ignition system (components, diagnosis, testing), cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses), lubrication system (oil pump, oil filter, oil passages), exhaust system (manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes), emission control systems (EGR, PCV, evaporative emission control).

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (operation, overhaul, diagnosis), automatic transmission (operation, overhaul, diagnosis, control systems).

Drivetrain Systems:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle (differential, gears, bearings), front axle (if applicable, e.g., 4WD models), CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension Systems:

Front suspension (control arms, ball joints, springs, shock absorbers, sway bar), rear suspension (leaf springs, shock absorbers, control arms if applicable), wheel alignment specifications.

Steering Systems:

Steering gear, steering column, power steering pump, hoses, steering linkage, wheel alignment.

Brake Systems:

Front brakes (disc, calipers, pads, rotors), rear brakes (drum or disc, drums, shoes, rotors, wheel cylinders, master cylinder), parking brake, hydraulic system (lines, fluid, ABS if equipped).

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), instrument cluster, warning lights, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, radio, HVAC controls.

Body Systems:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, seals, body panel repair, corrosion protection.

HVAC Systems:

Air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant cycle), heating (heater core, blower motor, heater control valve), ventilation, climate control.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (diagnosis, components, SRS module), seat belts, safety restraints.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, coolant flushes), lubrication, tire rotation, brake inspection, fluid level checks, belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing procedures, wiring diagram interpretation for electrical issues, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.

Installation:

Instructions for installing accessories or replacement parts, torque specifications for critical fasteners, alignment procedures.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine performance, transmission shifting, braking issues, electrical faults, and other common problems.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, diagrams, and procedures suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including scan tool data interpretation, circuit testing, and component-specific fault isolation.

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Systematic troubleshooting trees and flowcharts for efficient problem diagnosis.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations for clarity.

Binding Type Physical:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type Physical:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Hyperlinking:

Likely includes internal hyperlinks for easy navigation between sections and diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.5L (150 cu in) I4

Engine 1 Power:

Approx. 122 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 137 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6

Engine 2 Power:

Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3 Displacement:

5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8

Engine 3 Power:

Approx. 220 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 4 Displacement:

5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8

Engine 4 Power:

Approx. 245 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine 4 Torque:

Approx. 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 5 Displacement:

4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8 (Introduced later in the generation, coverage might vary)

Engine 5 Power:

Approx. 235 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 5 Torque:

Approx. 290 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with distributor-based systems on earlier models, Coil-on-Plug (COP) on later 4.7L.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically orange/red)

Coolant Capacity Approx:

11.4 - 14.8 quarts (depending on engine and configuration)

Oil Type 2 5L 3 9L:

SAE 10W-30 (check manual for temperature variations)

Oil Type 5 2L 5 9L:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for temperature variations)

Oil Capacity 2 5L 3 9L 5 2L:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)

Oil Capacity 5 9L:

Approx. 5.0 quarts (with filter)

Oil Filter Part Example:

Mopar MO-090, Fram PH3794, Wix 51515 (verify specific application)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 2Wd:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500)

Transmission Standard 4Wd:

NV3550 5-Speed Manual (often with a 2-speed transfer case for 4WD)

Transmission Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE, 44RE, 46RE depending on engine)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

MS-90335 (for NV3500/NV3550, typically Dexron-III or equivalent ATF is also used, verify specific manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

MS-9224 / ATF+4 (for 42RE, 44RE, 46RE models - *Note: Earlier models might use ATF+3, manual verification is crucial.*)

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.0-2.5 quarts

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 7.0-10.0 quarts (dry fill, varies with model)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab)

Bed Lengths:

Short Bed (approx. 6 feet), Long Bed (approx. 8 feet)

Wheelbase Regular Cab Short Bed:

Approx. 111.7 inches

Wheelbase Regular Cab Long Bed:

Approx. 124.7 inches

Wheelbase Club Cab:

Approx. 124.7 inches

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,600 - 4,500 lbs (varies by configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,300 - 6,100 lbs (varies by configuration)

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 1,000 - 1,600 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to approx. 7,000 lbs (with proper equipment and V8 engine)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Not directly available or varies by model year; typically rated for its class. Manual will detail specific rollover resistance measures.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels, and 4-wheel ABS on later models and higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags (standard).

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, rear seat belts.

Rollover Protection:

Body structure designed for impact absorption. Manual will detail specific structural components.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker base, 6-speaker premium).

Climate Control:

Manual climate control (heater, A/C, ventilation). Optional automatic temperature control may have been available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, electronic cruise control system.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era; primarily analog. No factory-equipped Bluetooth or USB ports. Aftermarket solutions common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (synthetic recommended for longer intervals). Manual will specify precise intervals.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection. Manual will provide specific guidance.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 100,000 miles for Platinum or Iridium plugs (if equipped), or 30,000 miles for conventional plugs. Manual will specify correct plug type and interval.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-5 years. Manual will specify correct coolant type and interval.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years, especially under severe use. Manual will provide specific recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 4-6 years. Manual will provide specific recommendation.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for ABS systems, consult manual)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF +3 (or MS-5789, consult manual for exact specification and compatibility)

Transfer Case Fluid:

MS-90335 / Dexron-III (for NP231, NP241 transfer cases, verify with manual)

Differential Fluid Rear:

Hypoid Gear Lubricant, SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 (with or without limited slip additive, depending on axle type - verify with manual)

Common Engine Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on Magnum V8s), occasional oil pressure sensor failures, spark plug blow-out on early Magnum V8s (corrective kits available).

Common Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission solenoid failures (leading to shifting problems), potential for internal wear in high-mileage units.

Common Suspension Issues:

Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, sagging front springs on higher-mileage vehicles.

Common Electrical Issues:

Faulty instrument cluster voltage regulators, intermittent power window/lock failures, corrosion on wiring harnesses.

Common Brake Issues:

Warped brake rotors, worn brake pads, seized caliper pistons.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and powerful trucks, often known for their performance-oriented Magnum V-engines and distinctive styling.

Dakota Introduction:

The Dodge Dakota was introduced in 1987 as a compact pickup, positioned between smaller compact trucks and full-size pickups. The 1997-2000 models represent the second generation (AN body style), a significant redesign with a more aggressive and aerodynamic appearance.

Second Generation Updates:

This generation saw the introduction of the more powerful 4.7L Magnum V8 engine (replacing the 5.2L on some models later), improved interior comfort, and enhanced safety features. The 'Dakota Sport' trim was also a variation offered.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Sales Trend:

The Dakota was a strong seller in the compact/mid-size truck segment during its production years, benefiting from its range of powerful engines and overall value.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997-2000 Dakota are not widely publicized as a single entity, the Dodge Dakota line consistently received praise for its V8 engine power and towing capability within its class during its production run. It was often cited as a strong contender against its competitors.